Why Do Dogs Moult?

Dogs normally moult every year in late spring. As the weather becomes warmer the dog’s body temperature is naturally kept down by the process of shedding hair. Dogs in moult should be brushed regularly, so that the old hair does not interfere with new growth. Your veterinarian or groomer should be able to recommend a specific type of brush or comb that will work best for your dog’s hair type.

It is the normal and natural process by which dogs deal with seasonal change. In the winter, dogs have thicker, denser coats to keep them warm, and in the summer, they have lighter, thinner coats to stay cool. Shedding is the process they undergo at least twice a year, dogs normally moult every year in late spring.

Although shedding is a normal process for dogs, the amount and frequency of hair that is shed often depends upon their health and breed type. Dogs that are always kept indoors, however, are prone to smaller fluctuations in coat thickness and tend to shed fairly evenly all year.

What Would Make a Dog Shed Excessively?

What seems like excessive shedding can be normal for some dogs, but it can also be the result of stress, poor nutrition or a medical problem. Your veterinarian can best determine if your dog’s hair loss is part of the normal shedding process or is a symptom of an underlying disorder. Excessive shedding can sometimes be prevented through proper nutrition.

Quality pet-food manufacturers work hard to include the right amount of nutrients so that supplements are not needed, but dogs with allergies and/or sensitivities still might need to experiment with different brands and formulations to discover which food works best for them. We recommend that you consult your veterinarian for advice on what foods will best suit your dog.

Content for this question contributed by Kelly Maynard, resident of Springfield, Hampden County, Massachusetts, USA